Arts and Entertainment

GIVEAWAY & Event Recap: ‘Sailing Back to Ellis Island’ with author Jane F. Collen

December 13, 2016

Two weeks ago, my daughter, Ava, and I had one of the most memorable experiences ever.

We were invited on a tour of Ellis Island with author, Jane F. Collen of the new young readers book, Sailing Back to Ellis Island: The Enjella Adventure Series. The book puts a fanciful spin on the often arduous and incredibly tedious process that immigrants endured upon entering into the new land: America pre-World War I.

Sailing Back to Ellis Island is available here, $11

A fairy named “Enjella,” and her fairy friend take two modern day siblings on a magical journey back in time.

So naturally, boarding the “Miss Ellis” ship and sailing to Ellis Island, which by the way was named after Samuel Ellis who owned the island in the 1770s), was only fitting. While Ava was excited to learn more about the book and the island, the boat ride was a wonderful way to start the educational afternoon.

Despite the biting chill, we managed to go to the top deck and see the Statue of Liberty in all of her glory and marvel at the gorgeous New York City skyline. It was the first time either of us had ever seen Lady Liberty so up close and personal or the beauty of the city from that perspective.

Before we entered the Ellis Island Museum (formerly the inspection station that served as the gateway for over 12 million immigrants to America from 1892-1954), Jane treated us to a brief reading from a chapter in Sailing Back to Ellis Island. Ava listened intently and whispered a few questions to me in an effort not to interrupt Jane or disturb the other attendees.

In the spirit of Enjella, Ava wore a pair of fairy wings during the tour.

Later, while at the museum we saw many interesting tidbits and artifacts. From actual luggage brought over by immigrants to a vintage cash register used to ring up snacks on the island.

The afternoon was filled with an abundance of information and intriguing exhibits. After the tour with Jane, we took a mini Junior Park Ranger course, which included Ava choosing an immigrant family and deciding where they’d live in America and why. Since her caretaker is from Trinidad and her dad and I are from Chicago, she of course chose a Caribbean family that moved to the Windy City! After completing the course, she was awarded a pretty impressive badge, which she wears proudly.

This time traveling tome is perfect for the young reader in your life who is just beginning to learn about American history. Plus, for us brown girls; it can serve as a great introduction to some of the more troubling and more personal part of history—the enslavement of our African ancestors.

It was truly a perfect day that I’ll forever cherish. On our way home, Ava said to me, “Mommy, I’ll always remember this day.” What more can a mom ask for?

GIVEAWAY: I’m giving away a copy of the Sailing Back to Ellis Island to one lucky reader. Simply leave a comment or tweet me why you’d like to visit Ellis Island and/or the Statue of Liberty. The winner will be randomly selected on or by December 20th. This contest is only open to U.S residents.

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Gumbo Mix, Misc. | Leave a Comment

A Fun-filled Trip to the Motherland: ‘Mother Africa: My Home’

December 12, 2016

If you’re in the New York City area for the holidays and looking for an entertaining afternoon, look no further than the New Victory Theater’s “Mother Africa: My Home.”

Photo courtesy of The New Victory Theater, credit: Mark La Rosa

Jam-packed with out-of-this world acrobatics, singing, dancing and more, this must-see show is hands-down my favorite live production of the year.

Created and produced by Winston Ruddle and Hubert Schober, the show is back by popular demand and for good reason. The ensemble cast puts on a crowd-pleasing performance that captivates audiences young and old.

Mother Africa: My Home is now showing at the New Victory Theater until January 1st. Click here for show times and tickets.

From unicyclists to contortionists to hula-hoop performers, the jaw-dropping tricks and unbelievable stunts were nothing short of mesmerizing. There was never a dull moment. Just when my daughter I thought it couldn’t get any more astounding, the incredibly talented cast would wow us yet again. Plus, the superb choreography coupled with the constant rhythmic African beats had us bouncing in our seats.

Photo courtesy of The New Victory Theater, credit: Hans-Juergen Herrmann

Set in Cape Town, each scene was colorful with vibrant, eye-catching costumes and props, showcasing South Africa’s rich, bustling culture.

In addition to the awe-inspiring show, the theater (in the lower lobby) also offers complementary arts & crafts and interactive activities that highlight the production. The activities are a fun way for the children in attendance to learn more about the show and its origins. They’re offered before the show, during intermission and after the show concludes. My daughter told me that coloring her own “African” cloth was the cherry on top of an outstanding day.

Whether you enjoy live music, breathtaking feats or high-energy performances, this part circus, part dance party is all fun.

Are you planning to see any Broadway shows this holiday season?

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Lego Fans Rejoice! Brick Fest Live Comes to Brooklyn

December 9, 2016

Looking for some fun for the kids this weekend?

If you’re in the New York City area, head to downtown Brooklyn for A Lego® Holiday Experience presented by Brick Fest Live. Held at City Point, Brooklyn’s brand new premier retail, residential, and office development space, the one-of-a-kind event will be an evening to remember for the Lego lover in your life.

There are plenty of educational and interactive activities to keep children and adults alike intrigued. From a life-size Disney character made of Legos to car building and racing to a fantastic glow-in-the-dark exhibit, the festive event boasts a variety of collaborative and solo opportunities to unleash creativity. Plus, fans of the beloved toy will be able to purchase items during the experience.

My son lived out his Lego dreams during a sneak peek of the event before it was opened to the public. He enjoyed building race cars and rolling around in the brick pit, which was like a lake of Legos. It was a great way for him to enhance his motor skills while letting his imagination run wild.

Get the deets below:

WHEN:

Friday, Dec. 9: 5pm-9pm

Saturday Dec. 10: 10am-9pm

Sunday Dec. 11: 10am-6pm

Friday, Dec. 16: 5pm-9pm

Saturday Dec. 17: 10am-9pm

Sunday Dec. 18: 10am-6pm

WHERE:

City Point Downtown Brooklyn, 445 Albee Square West, Brooklyn, NY

Tickets available for $12-15 at http://www.brickfestlive.com. FREE for kids age two and under.

Do you have a Lego-obsessed child in your family?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Misc., Parenting | Leave a Comment

Inside Sprout Studios: A Tour to Remember

December 1, 2016

There’s nothing more precious than witnessing your child experience a priceless moment.

I had that special pleasure a few weeks ago when I surprised my children with a visit to Sprout, the premier 24-hour cable network for preschoolers. Nestled on the 6^th floor of Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan, the NBC-owned channel is home to popular children programs like “Caillou” and “The Berenstain Bears,” as well as several original animated series such as “Dot.,” “Terrific Trucks,” and “Floogals.”

But the main star of the network is “Chica,” the chipper, gibberish-speaking chicken from the flagship, Emmy-nominated program, “The Sunnyside Up Show.” Not only does Chica serve as a co-host on the aforementioned show, she also makes appearances alongside hosts, Emily, Kaitlin, and Tim for birthday announcements, sing-alongs, holiday specials, etc. between programming breaks.

The private tour started with a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the control room. Having never visited a television studio before, seeing the multiple screens, monitors and unfamiliar knobs and buttons were fascinating for both of my kids. Watching their little faces light up in amazement was a true joy. But that excitement couldn’t compare to the jubilation of meeting Emily and Chica.

As we turned the hallway and walked into the studio where all of the action happens, the moment I’d been waiting for had finally arrived: they met Chica! Ava was excited, but certainly not as enthused as my 3-year-old son. His excitement was palpable and confirmed by his constant squeals and shrieks.

But, Chica wasn’t the only notable in the room. Emily is bonafide celebrity in our home so they were both pretty thrilled to meet her in person too. Her warm, peppy personality was just as vibrant off-camera as it appears onscreen.

After chatting with Chica and Emily, checking out the set, green room and makeup room, we were on our way with memories (and mementos) that will last a lifetime!

Be sure to look out for Sprout’s holiday specials throughout the month. Click here for more information.

Are your children Sprout fans? If so, what’s their favorite show(s)?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Gumbo Mix, Misc., Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | Leave a Comment

‘Ballerina Swan & the Nutcracker’ Is the Perfect Holiday Show for Kids

November 30, 2016

Theater has been a mainstay in my life since I was a child. My first memory of seeing a live production was when my mom took me to see “The Wiz,” at the famed Chicago Theater back in the ‘80s. It left a lasting impression on me and since then I’ve seen countless plays and musicals.

Today, I take my children to as many theatrical performances as I can—and living in a city as culturally rich as New York, the opportunities are endless.

This past weekend, my daughter and I had the pleasure of seeing New York City Children’s Theater’s latest production “Ballerina Swan and the Nutcracker.” Held at the Clurman Theater on Theater Row in Manhattan, the venue was the perfect location for the intimate show.

The nonprofit organization creates original, entertaining and enriching theater for kids and adults in New York City and this performance is no different. The production uniquely blends ballet with masterful puppetry. Based on the popular children’s book Ballerina Swan, the play stars “Sophie” the extraordinarily graceful dancing swan who must prepare for her big debut in the quintessential holiday show, “The Nutcracker.” During rehearsals, “Sophie” and the supporting cast make a surprising discovery that they didn’t see coming.

Photo by Carol Rosegg

Ideal for the holidays, the charming performance had my daughter and her friend transfixed. The mesmerizing dancers and eye-catching costumes kept their eyes glued to the stage. Plus, the storyline was easy for them to follow. Although the show was just under an hour, it allowed those who were feeling a bit antsy (ahem, how many kids can sit through a full show without getting fidgety?) to get up and dance with a fun interactive portion of the play.

My daughter, Ava, with the cast of “Ballerina Swan & the Nutcracker.”

As a mom, I appreciated the underlining message of acceptance, being true to yourself and being kind to one another. With the state of affairs in our country right now, that’s a message we should all embrace.

“Ballerina Swan and the Nutcracker” runs through December 18^th. General tickets are $25 and $45 for premium. Click here for more information.

What’s your favorite childhood theater memory?

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Watch the Cast of BET’s Upcoming ‘The New Edition Story’ Perform a Classic Hit

November 30, 2016

If you were a little brown girl growing up in the ’80s and ’90s, chances are you’re a die-hard New Edition fan.

Although I was two years shy of being born when they made their debut, I still vividly remember their songs and music videos playing throughout my childhood—and what great memories they were! That’s why I can hardly wait for the world premiere of the BET biopic, “The New Edition Story,” airing in January.

Produced by all six members (Ralph Tresvant, Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, Ronnie Devoe and Johnny Gill) of the groundbreaking group, the movie tells the story of their rise to fame from the Boston-area housing projects to pop superstardom, and of course the ups and downs that come with growing from boys to men under the spotlight.

Courtesy of BET Networks

The can’t-miss miniseries will air over three nights on January 24, 25 and 26. Each two-hour segment will feature some familiar faces, as well as some newcomers including “Empire” star Bryshere Y. Gray who plays Michael Bivins and Grammy®-nominated singer/songwriter Luke James as Johnny Gill, and Woody McClain who portrays the “King of R&B” Bobby Brown.

With industry legends Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis and Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds serving as music producers for the biopic, you know it’s going to be an entertaining musical trip down memory lane.

New Edition is undoubtedly one of the most prolific groups in music history. Their sex appeal, swagger and undeniable talent were unmatched—and they continue to tour (I’ve seen them several times throughout the years, including their separate acts) and make music for legions of fans. Plus, they’ll be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on January 23, a day before the biopic premieres on BET, cementing their influence and contributions to the industry.

Check out this clip of the cast performing N.E’s 1988 hit song, “You’re Not My Kind of Girl:”

What’s your favorite New Edition song?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 2 Comments

Disney’s ‘Moana’ is a Music-Filled Gem with an Empowering Message

November 25, 2016

There’s no denying the power of Disney movies.

From “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” to “Finding Dory,” Disney’s animated films transport audiences to a magical world that’s typically filled with music, valuable lessons and of course courageous, strong characters—leaving you feeling happy, empowered and optimistic. That winning formula remains in place with the new release of “Moana.”

Last week, my kids and I were invited to a special preview screening hosted by The Moms and sponsored by Subway. Thanks to the “eat fresh” fast-food chain, the kids had a healthy sandwich, fresh fruit and juice to enjoy before the movie. After noshing on the tasty bites, they were excited to finally see the animated film on the big screen. Admittedly, I was looking forward to it too since I had learned about the movie earlier this year at the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration.

And we were in for a treat!

The movie opened with an adorable baby Moana, the lead and title character. Disney has a knack for creating lovable younger versions of characters that grow into the strong protagonists.

Disney

Moana is indeed a strong girl. Voiced by actress Auli’i Cravalho, she is an iron-willed leader determined to expand her horizons despite her father’s well-intentioned reservations. Without spoiling the story, she goes on a quest to help her village, which requires her to go on a dangerous voyage beyond the ocean’s shore. While on her journey, she encounters a friendly former demigod named Maui, played by actor Dwayne Johnson aka “The Rock.”

Together they take viewers on a fun, action-packed musical adventure that explores ancestry, bravery, friendship, and self-exploration.

These coconut pirate action figures and charm bracelets are a few of the Moana-inspired toys that come with Subway’s Fresh Fit for Kids meals.

The story was inspiring and I especially loved that Moana was a young girl of color that children can look up to. I applaud Disney for showcasing more diversity in their animated series and feature films. It’s so important that they see positive and dynamic characters that look like them on screens, big and small. My daughter is now obsessed with Moana and has added a few Moana-inspired items to her Christmas list! Oh, and I haven’t been able to get the catchy tune, “You’re Welcome,” out of my head since seeing the movie. It’s an ear-worm that I welcome!